La Nana [The Maid] (2009)

Catalina Saavedra portrays the help for a rich family in Mexico and crafts a character that is unforgettable to watch.  Everything about her, from the way she walks, to the way she reacts to the other characters that cross her path is outstanding.  Yet she’s not the only stand out in this dramedy, directed by Sebastián Silva, there’s also Anita Reeves whose appearance in the second half of the film transforms the film into true work of art.  Here’s a story about a woman that so cares about those she cares about that she forgets that she needs to be cared for, especially from herself.   It’s also so refreshing to see characters on screen with normal bodies and likable but not striking diva faces.   Instead of some Hollywood beauty making herself look ugly so she can win an Oscar, you have real people and in real situations.  What a wonderful idea to keep your audience tuned in to the story instead of bringing the casting decisions in light.   Grade: A-